Fixturing apparatus

ABSTRACT

A fixturing apparatus that includes a member having a first end, a second end, a first surface, and a second surface, wherein the member is configured to include a bend such that the first end overlies the second end, wherein the member is formed to include an aperture extending therethrough at the bend, a plurality of locking teeth disposed on the first surface adjacent the second end, wherein the distal ends of each of the plurality of locking teeth define a passage between the plurality of locking teeth and the first surface adjacent the first end.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This Application is a Divisional of U.S. application having Ser. No.12/741,821, filed on Sep. 30, 2010, which is incorporated herein byreference and which claimed priority from an International PatentApplication having a PCT Application No. PCT/US08/82685 filed on Nov. 6,2008, which is incorporated herein by reference and which claimedpriority from a U.S. Provisional Patent Application having Ser. No.60/985,881 filed Nov. 6, 2007 which is hereby incorporated herein byreference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to a fixturing apparatus and to a method to formthat fixturing apparatus. In certain embodiments, the invention relatesto a fixturing apparatus for cables.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

It is known in the art to releaseably attached a first surface to asecond surface by disposing a plurality of flexible loop-type fastenerson one of the surfaces and a plurality of flexible hook-type fastenerson the other surface. When mated, the plurality of flexible hook-typefasteners engage with the plurality of flexible loop-type fasteners toreleaseably secure the first surface to the second surface.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will be better understood from a reading of the followingdetailed description taken in conjunction with the drawings in whichlike reference designators are used to designate like elements, and inwhich:

FIG. 1 illustrates Applicant's fixturing apparatus 100;

FIG. 2 illustrates Applicant's fixturing apparatus 200;

FIG. 3A is a front view of fixturing apparatus 300;

FIG. 3B illustrates fixturing apparatus 400;

FIG. 3C is a cross-sectional view of the fixturing apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3D shows a first embodiment of Applicant's rigid locking tooth;

FIG. 3E shows a second embodiment of Applicant's rigid locking tooth;

FIG. 3F shows a third embodiment of Applicant's rigid locking tooth;

FIG. 3G shows a second perspective view of the rigid locking tooth ofFIG. 3F;

FIG. 3H shows a fourth embodiment of Applicant's rigid locking tooth;

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a plurality of Applicant's rigidlocking teeth arranged in a first orientation;

FIG. 4B is a first top view of the plurality of Applicant's rigidlocking teeth shown in FIG. 4A;

FIG. 4C is a second top view of the plurality of Applicant's rigidlocking teeth shown in FIG. 4A;

FIG. 5A is a first top view of the plurality of Applicant's rigidlocking teeth arranged in a second orientation;

FIG. 5B is a top view of four of Applicant's rigid locking teetharranged in the orientation of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 5C shows the angle formed by the intersection of the long axes oftwo adjacent rigid locking teeth in the same column, wherein those rigidlocking teeth are arranged in the orientation of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 5D is a second top view of the plurality of Applicant's rigidlocking teeth shown in FIG. 5A;

FIG. 6A is a first top view of the plurality of Applicant's rigidlocking teeth arranged in a third orientation;

FIG. 6B is a second top view of the plurality of rigid locking teethshown in FIG. 6A;

FIG. 7A is a perspective view of Applicant's rigid locking teetharranged in a fourth orientation;

FIG. 7B is a first top view of the plurality of Applicant's rigidlocking teeth arranged in the orientation of FIG. 7A;

FIG. 7C is a second top view of the plurality of rigid locking teethshown in FIG. 7A;

FIG. 8A is a first top view of the plurality of Applicant's rigidlocking teeth arranged in a fifth orientation;

FIG. 8B is a second top view of the plurality of rigid locking teethshown in FIG. 8A;

FIG. 9A is a first top view of the plurality of Applicant's rigidlocking teeth arranged in a sixth orientation; and

FIG. 9B is a second top view of the plurality of rigid locking teethshown in FIG. 9A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

This invention is described in preferred embodiments in the followingdescription with reference to the Figures, in which like numbersrepresent the same or similar elements. Reference throughout thisspecification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” or similar languagemeans that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic describedin connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodimentof the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in oneembodiment,” “in an embodiment,” and similar language throughout thisspecification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the sameembodiment.

The described features, structures, or characteristics of the inventionmay be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Inthe following description, numerous specific details are recited toprovide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the invention. Oneskilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that the inventionmay be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or withother methods, components, materials, and so forth. In other instances,well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown ordescribed in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the invention.

Referring to FIG. 1, Applicant's fixturing apparatus 100 comprises amember 102 having a first surface 112, a second surface 114, a first end110, and a second end 120, wherein member 102 is formed to include a 180degree bend 115 therein such that second end 120 overlies first end 110.Applicant's fixturing apparatus further comprises a plurality of lockingteeth 104 disposed on first surface 112 adjacent second end 120, theplurality of locking teeth 104 extending outwardly from first surface112. The plurality of locking teeth 104 extend outwardly toward firstsurface 112 adjacent first end 110. Member 102 is further formed toinclude an aperture 118 extending through the first surface and thesecond surface at bend 115.

In certain embodiments, member 102 is formed from one or more metals. Incertain embodiments, member 102 is from one or more ceramic materials.In certain embodiments, member 102 is formed from a polymeric materialselected from a group consisting of nylon, polyamide, polyimide,polyamideimide, polyurethane, polyethylene, polypropylene,polycarbonate, polystyrene, and combinations thereof.

In certain embodiments, Applicant's plurality of rigid locking teeth 104are formed from one or more metals. In certain embodiments, Applicant'splurality of rigid locking teeth are formed from one or more ceramicmaterials. In certain embodiments, Applicant's plurality of rigidlocking teeth are formed from a polymeric material selected from a groupconsisting of nylon, polyamide, polyimide, polyamideimide, polyurethane,polyethylene, polypropylene, polycarbonate, polystyrene, andcombinations thereof.

FIG. 2 illustrates Applicant's fixturing apparatus 200 which comprisesfixturing apparatus 100 in combination with flexible strap 210. Flexiblestrap 210 comprises a first surface 212, an opposing surface 214. Incertain embodiments, a plurality of loop-type fasteners 216 are disposedon surface 214. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 2, a first end 218of flexible strap 210 is attached to surface 114 of member 102 adjacentfirst end 110.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 2, end 220 of flexible strap 210has been moved through aperture 118, between first surface 112 and theplurality of locking teeth 104, and outwardly from fixturing apparatus200.

Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 3A, Applicant's fixturing apparatus 300comprises the elements of fixturing apparatus 100 wherein end 110 isformed to include an aperture 306 extending inwardly. A plurality 104Bof Applicant's locking teeth are disposed within aperture 306.

Referring to FIGS. 1, 3A, and 3B, Applicant's fixturing apparatus 400comprises fixturing apparatus 300 in combination with flexible strap410. Flexible strap 410 comprises a surface 412. In certain embodiments,a plurality of loop-type fasteners 414 are disposed on surface 412.Flexible strap further comprises end 416 and opposing end 418.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 3B, end 416 of flexible strap 410is shown inserted into aperture 306 where that end 416 is fixture toplurality 104B of Applicant's locking teeth. Further in the illustratedembodiment of FIG. 3B, end 418 of flexible strap 410 has been movedthrough aperture 118, between first surface 112 and the plurality oflocking teeth 104A, and outwardly from fixturing apparatus 400.

FIG. 3C shows a cross-section view of a portion of fixturing apparatus200/400. FIG. 3C shows a first plurality of rigid lacking teeth 260,270, 280, and 290, disposed on surface 112 adjacent end 120 of member102. Locking teeth 260, 270, 280, and 290, comprise a portion of theplurality of locking teeth 104 in FIG. 1, and a portion of the pluralityof locking teeth 104A in FIG. 3A.

Rigid locking tooth 260 is formed to include a sloping side portion 262,and a gripping edge 264. Similarly, rigid locking teeth 270, 280, and290, are formed to include sloping side portions 272, 282, and 292,respectively.

A fabric material, such as for example and without limitation flexiblestrap 210/410, will slide across rigid locking teeth locking teeth 260,270, 280, and 290, in the non-fixturing direction 380, wherein thatfabric moves across the sloping side portion of a rigid locking toothbefore contacting the gripping edge of that rigid locking tooth. Afabric material will not, however, slide across rigid locking teethlocking teeth 260, 270, 280, and 290, in the opposite, or fixturingdirection 390. Rather when a force is applied to the fabric along thefixturing direction 390, portions of the fabric will engage grippingedges 264, 274, 284, and 294, thereby preventing movement of the fabricalong the fixturing direction.

In embodiments wherein the flexible strap 210/410 comprises a pluralityof flexible loop-type fasteners 216/414 disposed on surface 214/412 incontact with locking teeth gripping edges 264, 274, 284, and 294, thegripping edges engage those flexible loop-type fasteners therebypreventing movement of the fabric in the fixturing direction.

In certain embodiments, flexible strap 210/410 comprises a fabric. By“fabric,” Applicant means a flexible material formed by weaving orfelting or knitting or crocheting natural and/or synthetic fibers. Incertain embodiments, strap 210/410 comprises a nylon fabric. In certainembodiments, strap 210/410 comprises a cotton or polyester fabric.

In certain embodiments, end 220 of flexible strap 210 can be insertedinto first end 101 of passage 106, and moved in direction 380 throughpassage 106 and outwardly through second end 103 of passage 106 (FIG.1). After insertion in and through aperture passage 106 in firstdirection 380, flexible strap 210 cannot be moved backwardly throughpassage 106 in second direction 390.

In certain embodiments, end 418 of flexible strap 410 can be insertedinto first end 101 of passage 106, and moved in direction 380 throughpassage 106 and outwardly through second end 103 of passage 106 (FIG.1). After insertion in and through aperture passage 106 in firstdirection 380, flexible strap 410 cannot be moved backwardly throughpassage 106 in second direction 390.

Applicant has found that fixturing is extremely strong when the strap210/410 is confined to an enclosed channel, such as passage 106.

In certain embodiments, one or more of Applicant's rigid locking teethcomprises a rectangular base, a first rectangular surface attached to afirst end of said rectangular base and extending outwardly therefrom,and a second rectangular surface attached to an opposing end of saidrectangular base and extending outwardly therefrom, wherein a firstrectangular surface distal end is attached to a said second rectangularsurface distal end to form a gripping edge. For example and referringnow to FIG. 3D, in certain embodiments Applicant's fixturing apparatuscomprises one or more looking teeth 300. Rigid locking tooth 300comprises a first embodiment of a five-sided structure.

Referring now to FIG. 3E, in certain embodiments Applicant's fixturingapparatus comprises one or more looking teeth 302. Rigid locking tooth302 comprises a second embodiment of a five-sided structure.

Rigid locking teeth 300 and 302 comprise a rectangular base 310, a firstrectangular surface 320 attached to a first end 314 of rectangular base310 and extending outwardly therefrom, a second rectangular surface 340attached to a second end 318 of rectangular base 310 and extendingoutwardly therefrom, wherein a first rectangular surface distal end isattached to a said second rectangular surface distal end to form agripping edge 324.

With respect to rigid locking tooth 300, the first rectangular surface320 in combination with rectangular base 310 define an internal dihedralangle of about 90 degrees. With respect to rigid locking tooth 302, thefirst rectangular surface 320 in combination with rectangular base 310define an internal dihedral angle Φ greater than 90 degrees. In certainembodiments, is about 110 degrees. In certain embodiments, Φ is about120 degrees.

Referring now to FIG. 3F, in certain embodiments Applicant's fixturingapparatus comprises one or more rigid locking teeth 304. Rigid lockingtooth 304 comprises a first embodiment of a six-sided structure.Referring now to FIG. 3H, in certain embodiments Applicant's fixturingapparatus comprises one or more looking teeth 306. Rigid locking tooth306 comprises a second embodiment of a six-sided structure.

In certain embodiments, Applicant's fixturing apparatus comprises zeroor more rigid locking teeth 300, in combination with zero or more rigidlocking teeth 302, in combination with zero or more rigid locking teeth304, in combination with zero or more rigid locking teeth 306.

FIG. 3F shows Applicant's rigid locking tooth 304. The lengths, widths,heights, and axes, described with respect to rigid locking tooth 304also apply to rigid locking teeth 300, 302, and 306. Base 310 comprisesa rectangular shape defined by sides 312, 314, 316, and 318. Base 310comprises a length 372 and a width 382. In certain embodiments, length372 is between about 0.0002 mm and about 5.0 mm. In certain embodiments,width 382 is between about 0.0001 mm and about 2.5 mm.

Rectangular-shaped side 320, defined by sides 314, 322, 324, and 326, isattached to edge 314 of base 310 and extends upwardly therefrom. In theillustrated embodiment of FIG. 3A, side 320 and base 310 intersect toform a dihedral angle of about ninety degrees (90°). Side 320 comprisesa height 375 and width 382.

In certain embodiments, height 375 is between about 0.0001 mm and about5 mm. In certain embodiments, height 375 is about 0.0001 mm. In certainembodiments, height 375 is about 0.001 mm. In certain embodiments,height 375 is about 0.01 mm. In certain embodiments, height 375 is about0.1 mm. In certain embodiments, height 375 is about 1 mm.

Rectangular-shaped side 330, defined by sides 318, 332, 334, and 336, isattached edge 318 of base 310, and extends upwardly therefrom. In theillustrated embodiment of FIG. 3F, side 330 and base 310 intersect toform a dihedral angle of about ninety degrees (90°). Side 330 comprisesa height 385 and width 382. In certain embodiments, height 385 isbetween about 0 mm and about 2.0 mm.

As those skilled in the art will appreciate, where height 385 is 0 mm,rigid locking tooth 304 becomes rigid locking tooth 300. Where height385 is 0 mm, sides 336 and 318 are the same, and top portion 340intersects with base portion 310. The dimensions and axes described inFIGS. 3A through 3B are applicable to both rigid locking tooth 300 andrigid locking tooth 305.

Sides 320 and 330 have a facing relationship, wherein height 320 isgreater than height 330. In certain embodiments wherein height 385 isgreater than 0, the ratio of height 375 to height 385 is between about2:1 to about 6:1.

Top 340 comprises a rectangular shape, and is defined by sides 324, 342,336, and 344. Top 340 comprises width 382. Referring now to FIGS. 3A and3D, side 350 comprises a quadrilateral shape with two parallel sides 326and 334, and is defined by sides 312, 326, 334, and 344. Referring nowto FIGS. 3A and 3E, side 360 comprises a quadrilateral shape with twoparallel sides 322 and 332, and is defined by sides 316, 322, 332, and342.

Referring now to FIG. 3G, rigid locking tooth 300 comprises a long axis390 comprising a first center line of base 210, wherein that long axis390 is parallel to long sides 312 and 316 and bisects short sides 314and 318. Rigid locking tooth 300 further comprises short axis 395comprising a second center line of base 210, wherein that short axis 395is parallel to short sides 314 and 318 bisects long sides 312 and 316.

FIGS. 3E and 3H illustrate Applicant's rigid locking teeth 302 and 306.

As a general matter, individual rigid locking teeth disposed in anygiven plurality of rigid locking teeth 104 are arranged in a pattern ofcolumns and rows. In various embodiments of Applicant's invention, theorientations of individual rigid locking teeth disposed in such columnsand rows differ. These various orientations are described herein withreference to the relationship of the long axes 390 (FIG. 3G) and shortaxes 395 (FIG. 3G) of adjacent rigid locking teeth in the same column,and the relationship of the long axes 390 and short axes 395 of adjacentrigid locking teeth in the same row.

References herein to axes being “aligned” mean that those axes arecoaxial and/or parallel, i.e. overlap one another. Axes described hereinas not being aligned are not coaxial, i.e. do not overlap. Inorientations 400 (FIG. 4A) and 700 (FIG. 7A), the long axes of adjacentrigid locking teeth disposed in the same column are aligned. Inorientations 500, 600, 800, and 900, the long axes of adjacent rigidlocking teeth disposed in the same column are not aligned. Inorientations 400, 500, 700, and 800, the long axes of adjacent rigidlocking teeth disposed in the same row are parallel. In orientations 600and 900, the long axes of adjacent rigid locking teeth disposed in thesame row are not parallel.

In orientations 400, the short axes of adjacent rigid locking teethdisposed in the same row are aligned. In orientations 500, 600, 700,800, and 900, the short axes of adjacent rigid locking teeth disposed inthe same row are not aligned.

FIG. 4A shows a portion of plurality of Applicant's rigid locking teeth,such as plurality of rigid locking teeth 104, wherein that plurality ofrigid locking teeth comprise orientation 400. In certain embodiments,each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 4A comprisesa rigid locking tooth 300. In certain embodiments, each of the pluralityof rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 4A comprises a rigid locking tooth302. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid lockingteeth shown in FIG. 4A comprises a rigid locking tooth 304. In certainembodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG.4A comprises a rigid locking tooth 306. In certain embodiments, each ofthe plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 4A is selected fromthe group consisting of a rigid locking tooth 300, a rigid locking tooth302, a rigid locking tooth 304, and a rigid locking tooth 306.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 4A, the plurality of rigid lockingteeth are arranged in columns and rows, namely columns 1, 2, 3, and 4,and rows 1, 2, 3, and 4. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 4A, rigidlocking tooth 1,1 for example is disposed in column 1 and row 1. For thesake of clarity, FIG. 4A shows a total of 16 rigid locking teeth. Inactual implementation, Applicant's plurality of rigid locking teeth 104comprises between about one hundred, and about ten thousand individualrigid locking teeth, per square inch.

FIGS. 4B and 4C comprise top views of orientation 400 shown in FIG. 4A.Referring now to FIG. 4B, the rigid locking teeth comprising column 1are separated from the rigid locking teeth comprising column 2 by aspacing 402. In certain embodiments, spacing 402 is substantially thesame as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth.By “substantially the same,” Applicant means within plus or minus tenpercent (10%). In other embodiments, spacing 402 is less than width 382.In still other embodiments, spacing 402 is greater than width 382.

Similarly, column 2 and 3 are separated by spacing 404, and column 3 andcolumn 4 are separated by spacing 406. In certain embodiments, spacing404 is substantially the same as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of theindividual rigid locking teeth. In other embodiments, spacing 404 isless than width 382. In still other embodiments, spacing 404 is greaterthan width 382. In certain embodiments, spacing 406 is substantially thesame as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth.In other embodiments, spacing 406 is less than width 382. In still otherembodiments, spacing 406 is greater than width 382.

In orientation 400 shown in FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C, the long axes 390 ofeach rigid locking tooth disposed in a column are aligned, and the shortaxis 395 of each rigid locking tooth disposed in a row are aligned. Forexample, rigid locking teeth 1,1; 1,2; 1,3; and 1,4; are each disposedin column 1. Aggregate long axis 450 comprises the individual long axis390 of each of rigid locking teeth 1,1; 1,2; 1,3; and 1,4. Similarly,aggregate long axes 460, 470, and 480, comprise the individual long axis390 of each rigid lacking tooth disposed in columns 2, 3, and 4,respectively.

Rigid locking teeth 1,1; 2,1; 3,1; and 4,1; are disposed in row 1.Aggregate short axis 410 comprises the individual short axis 395 of eachof rigid locking teeth 1,1; 2,1; 3,1; and 4,1. Similarly, aggregateshort axes 420, 430, and 440, comprise the individual short axis 395 ofeach tooth disposed in rows 2, 3, and 4, respectively.

FIG. 5A shows a portion of plurality of Applicant's rigid locking teeth,wherein that plurality of rigid locking teeth comprise orientation 500.In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teethshown in FIG. 5A comprises a rigid locking tooth 300. In certainembodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG.5A comprises a rigid locking tooth 302. In certain embodiments, each ofthe plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 5A comprises a rigidlocking tooth 304. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality ofrigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 5A comprises a rigid locking tooth306. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid lockingteeth shown in FIG. 5A is selected from the group consisting of a rigidlocking tooth 300, a rigid locking tooth 302, a rigid locking tooth 304,and a rigid locking tooth 306.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 5A, the plurality of rigid lockingteeth are arranged in columns and rows, namely columns 1, 2, 3, and 4,and rows 1, 2, 3, and 4. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 5A, rigidlocking tooth 1,1 for example is disposed in column 1 and row 1. For thesake of clarity, FIG. 5A shows a total of 16 rigid locking teeth.

The rigid locking teeth comprising column 1 are separated from the rigidlocking teeth comprising column 2 by a spacing 502. In certainembodiments, spacing 502 is substantially the same as the width 382(FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. By “substantially thesame,” Applicant means within plus or minus ten percent (10%). In otherembodiments, spacing 502 is less than width 382. In still otherembodiments, spacing 502 is greater than width 382.

Similarly, column 2 and 3 are separated by spacing 504, and column 3 andcolumn 4 are separated by spacing 506. In certain embodiments, spacing504 is substantially the same as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of theindividual rigid locking teeth. In other embodiments, spacing 504 isless than width 382. In still other embodiments, spacing 504 is greaterthan width 382. In certain embodiments, spacing 506 is substantially thesame as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth.In other embodiments, spacing 506 is less than width 382. In still otherembodiments, spacing 506 is greater than width 382.

FIG. 5B comprise a top view of one column of rigid locking teethdisposed in orientation 500. In orientation 500, the individual longaxes 390 of each rigid locking tooth disposed in a column are notaligned. For example, rigid locking tooth 1,1 comprises long axis 515,and the adjacent rigid locking tooth in column 1, namely rigid lockingtooth 1,2, comprises long axis 525. As FIGS. 5B and 5C illustrate, longaxes 515 and 525 are not aligned. Rather, long axis 525 is offset fromlong axis 515 by a first offset angle Φ1. In certain embodiments, firstoffset angle Φ1 is between about 5 degrees and about 45 degrees.

Similarly, long axis 535 is offset from long axis 525 by a second offsetangle. In certain embodiments, second offset angle is between about 5degrees and about 45 degrees. Long axis 545 is offset from long axis 535by a third offset angle. In certain embodiments, the third offset angleis between about 5 degrees and about 45 degrees.

As a general matter, in orientation 500 the long axis for the (i)thrigid locking tooth in (j)th column is offset from the long axis of theadjacent (i+1)th rigid locking tooth in that (j)th column by the (i)thoffset angle.

In orientation 500 illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5D, the long axes 390 ofadjacent rigid locking teeth disposed in the same column are notaligned, however the long axes of the rigid locking teeth in the samerow are parallel. Rigid locking teeth 1,4; 2,4; 3,4; and 4,4, are alldisposed in row 4, and comprise long axes 510, 520, 530, and 540,respectively. As illustrated in FIG. 5D, long axes 510, 520, 530, and540, are parallel.

FIG. 6A shows a portion of Applicant's plurality of rigid locking teeth,wherein that plurality of rigid locking teeth comprise orientation 600.In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teethshown in FIG. 6A comprises a rigid locking tooth 300. In certainembodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG.6A comprises a rigid locking tooth 302. In certain embodiments, each ofthe plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 6A comprises a rigidlocking tooth 304. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality ofrigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 6A comprises a rigid locking tooth306. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid lockingteeth shown in FIG. 6A is selected from the group consisting of a rigidlocking tooth 300, a rigid locking tooth 302, a rigid locking tooth 304,and a rigid locking tooth 306.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 6A, the plurality of rigid lockingteeth are arranged in columns and rows, namely columns 1, 2, 3, and 4,and rows 1, 2, 3, and 4.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 6A, rigid locking tooth 1,1 forexample is disposed in column 1 and row 1. For the sake of clarity, FIG.6A shows a total of 16 rigid locking teeth. In actual implementation,Applicant's plurality of rigid locking teeth 104 comprises between aboutone hundred, and about ten thousand individual rigid locking teeth.

The rigid locking teeth comprising column 1 are separated from the rigidlocking teeth comprising column 2 by a maximum spacing 602. In certainembodiments, maximum spacing 602 is substantially the same as the width382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. By “substantiallythe same,” Applicant means within plus or minus twenty percent (20%). Inother embodiments, maximum spacing 602 is less than width 382. In stillother embodiments, maximum spacing 602 is greater than width 382.

Similarly, column 2 and 3 are separated by spacing maximum 604, andcolumn 3 and column 4 are separated by maximum spacing 606. In certainembodiments, maximum spacing 604 is substantially the same as the width382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. In otherembodiments, maximum spacing 604 is less than width 382. In still otherembodiments, maximum spacing 604 is greater than width 382. In certainembodiments, maximum spacing 606 is substantially the same as the width382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. In otherembodiments, maximum spacing 606 is less than width 382. In still otherembodiments, maximum spacing 606 is greater than width 382.

In orientation 600 illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the long axes 390 ofadjacent rigid locking teeth disposed in the same column are notaligned. Moreover, the long axes of the rigid locking teeth in the samerow are not parallel. Rigid locking teeth 1,4; 2,4; 3,4; and 4,4, areall disposed in row 4, and comprise long axes 610, 620, 630, and 640,respectively. As illustrated in FIG. 6B, long axes 610 is not parallelto long axis 620, which is not parallel to long axis 630, which is notparallel to long axis 640.

FIG. 7A shows a portion of Applicant's plurality of rigid locking teeth,wherein that plurality of rigid locking teeth comprise orientation 700.In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teethshown in FIG. 7A comprises a rigid locking tooth 300. In certainembodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG.7A comprises a rigid locking tooth 302. In certain embodiments, each ofthe plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 7A comprises a rigidlocking tooth 304. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality ofrigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 7A comprises a rigid locking tooth306. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid lockingteeth shown in FIG. 7A is selected from the group consisting of a rigidlocking tooth 300, a rigid locking tooth 302, a rigid locking tooth 304,and a rigid locking tooth 306.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 7B, the plurality of rigid lockingteeth comprising orientation 700 are arranged in columns and rows,namely columns 1, 2, 3, and 4, and rows 1, 2, 3, and 4. In theillustrated embodiment of FIG. 7B, rigid locking tooth 1,1 for exampleis disposed in column 1 and row 1. For the sake of clarity, FIG. 7Bshows a total of 16 rigid locking teeth.

The rigid locking teeth comprising column 1 are separated from the rigidlocking teeth comprising column 2 by a spacing 702. In certainembodiments, spacing 702 is substantially the same as the width 382(FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. By “substantially thesame,” Applicant means within plus or minus ten percent (10%). In otherembodiments, spacing 702 is less than width 382. In still otherembodiments, spacing 702 is greater than width 382.

Similarly, column 2 and 3 are separated by spacing 704, and column 3 andcolumn 4 are separated by spacing 706. In certain embodiments, spacing704 is substantially the same as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of theindividual rigid locking teeth. In other embodiments, spacing 704 isless than width 382. In still other embodiments, spacing 704 is greaterthan width 382. In certain embodiments, spacing 706 is substantially thesame as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth.In other embodiments, spacing 706 is less than width 382. In still otherembodiments, spacing 706 is greater than width 382.

In orientation 700 illustrated in FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 7C, the long axes390 of adjacent rigid locking teeth disposed in the same column arealigned. For example, aggregate long axis 710 comprises the individuallong axes 390 of rigid locking teeth 1,1; 1,2; 1,3; and 1,4. Similarly,aggregate long axis 720 comprises the individual long axes 390 of rigidlocking teeth 2,1; 2,2; 2,3; and 2,4. Similarly, aggregate long axis 730comprises the individual long axes 390 of rigid locking teeth 3,1; 3,2;3,3; and 3,4. Similarly, aggregate long axis 740 comprises theindividual long axes 390 of rigid locking teeth 4,1; 2,4; 4,3; and 4,4.

In orientation 700, the short axes 395 of the rigid locking toothdisposed in the same row are not aligned. For example, rigid lockingteeth 1,1; 2,1; 3,1; and 4,1, are disposed in row 1. Rigid locking tooth1,4 comprises short axis 750. Rigid locking tooth 2,4 comprises shortaxis 760. Rigid locking tooth 3,4 comprises short axis 770. Rigidlocking tooth 4,4 comprises short axis 780. In the illustratedembodiment of FIG. 7C, short axis 750 is not aligned with short axis760, which is not aligned with short axis 770, which is not aligned withshort axis 780.

FIG. 8A shows a portion of plurality of Applicant's rigid locking teeth,wherein that plurality of rigid locking teeth comprise orientation 800.In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teethshown in FIG. 8A comprises a rigid locking tooth 300. In certainembodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG.8A comprises a rigid locking tooth 302. In certain embodiments, each ofthe plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 8A comprises a rigidlocking tooth 304. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality ofrigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 8A comprises a rigid locking tooth306. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid lockingteeth shown in FIG. 8A is selected from the group consisting of a rigidlocking tooth 300, a rigid locking tooth 302, a rigid locking tooth 304,and a rigid locking tooth 306.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 8A, the plurality of rigid lockingteeth are arranged in columns and rows, namely columns 1, 2, 3, and 4,and rows 1, 2, 3, and 4. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 8A, rigidlocking tooth 1,1 for example is disposed in column 1 and row 1. For thesake of clarity, FIG. 8A shows a total of 16 rigid locking teeth. Inactual implementation, Applicant's plurality of rigid locking teeth 104comprises between about one hundred, and about ten thousand individualrigid locking teeth.

The rigid locking teeth comprising column 1 are separated from the rigidlocking teeth comprising column 2 by a spacing 802. In certainembodiments, spacing 802 is substantially the same as the width 382(FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. By “substantially thesame,” Applicant means within plus or minus ten percent (10%). In otherembodiments, spacing 802 is less than width 382. In still otherembodiments, spacing 802 is greater than width 382.

Similarly, column 2 and 3 are separated by spacing 804, and column 3 andcolumn 4 are separated by spacing 806. In certain embodiments, spacing804 is substantially the same as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of theindividual rigid locking teeth. In other embodiments, spacing 804 isless than width 382. In still other embodiments, spacing 804 is greaterthan width 382. In certain embodiments, spacing 806 is substantially thesame as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth.In other embodiments, spacing 806 is less than width 382. In still otherembodiments, spacing 806 is greater than width 382.

In orientation 800 illustrated in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the long axes 390 ofadjacent rigid locking teeth disposed in the same column are notaligned. For example, rigid locking teeth 1,1; 1,2; 1,3; and 1,4;comprise long axes 810, 820, 830, and 840, respectively. Long axis 810is not aligned with long axis 820, which is not aligned with long axis830, which is not aligned with long axis 840.

In orientation 800, the long axes of the rigid locking teeth in the samerow are parallel. Rigid locking teeth 1,4; 2,4; 3,4; and 4,4, are alldisposed in row 4, and comprise long axes 840, 880, 890, and 895,respectively. As illustrated in FIG. 8B, long axes 840, 880, 890, and895, are parallel to one another.

In orientation 800, the short axes 395 of the rigid locking toothdisposed in the same row are not aligned. For example, the rigid lockingteeth 1,1; 2,1; 3,1; and 4,1; comprise short axis 815, 850, 860, and870, respectively, wherein axis 815 is not aligned with axis 850, whichis not aligned with axis 860, which is not aligned with axis 870.

FIG. 9A shows a portion of plurality of Applicant's rigid locking teeth,wherein that plurality of rigid locking teeth comprises orientation 900.In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teethshown in FIG. 9A comprises a rigid locking tooth 300. In certainembodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG.9A comprises a rigid locking tooth 302. In certain embodiments, each ofthe plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 9A comprises a rigidlocking tooth 304. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality ofrigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 9A comprises a rigid locking tooth306. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid lockingteeth shown in FIG. 9A is selected from the group consisting of a rigidlocking tooth 300, a rigid locking tooth 302, a rigid locking tooth 304,and a rigid locking tooth 306.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 9A, the plurality of rigid lockingteeth are arranged in columns and rows, namely columns 1, 2, 3, and 4,and rows 1, 2, 3, and 4. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 9A, rigidlocking tooth 1,1 for example is disposed in column 1 and row 1. For thesake of clarity, FIG. 9A shows a total of 16 rigid locking teeth. Inactual implementation, Applicant's plurality of rigid locking teeth 104comprises between about one hundred, and about ten thousand individualrigid locking teeth.

The rigid locking teeth comprising column 1 are separated from the rigidlocking teeth comprising column 2 by a maximum spacing 902. In certainembodiments, maximum spacing 902 is substantially the same as the width382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. By “substantiallythe same,” Applicant means within plus or minus ten percent (10%). Inother embodiments, maximum spacing 902 is less than width 382. In stillother embodiments, maximum spacing 902 is greater than width 382.

Similarly, column 2 and 3 are separated by spacing maximum 904, andcolumn 3 and column 4 are separated by maximum spacing 906. In certainembodiments, maximum spacing 904 is substantially the same as the width382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. In otherembodiments, maximum spacing 904 is less than width 382. In still otherembodiments, maximum spacing 904 is greater than width 382. In certainembodiments, maximum spacing 906 is substantially the same as the width382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. In otherembodiments, maximum spacing 906 is less than width 382. In still otherembodiments, maximum spacing 906 is greater than width 382.

In orientation 900 illustrated in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the long axes 390 ofadjacent rigid locking teeth disposed in the same column are notaligned. For example, rigid locking teeth 1,1; 1,2; 1,3; and 1,4;comprise long axes 910, 920, 930, and 940, respectively. Long axis 910is not aligned with long axis 920, which is not aligned with long axis930, which is not aligned with long axis 940.

In orientation 900, the long axes of the rigid locking teeth in the samerow are not parallel. Rigid locking teeth 1,4; 2,4; 3,4; and 4,4, areall disposed in row 4, and comprise long axes 940, 980, 990, and 995,respectively. As illustrated in FIG. 8B, long axis 940 is not parallelwith long axis 980, which is not parallel with long axis 990, which isnot parallel with long axis 995. Alternate long axes, such as long axes940 and 990 and long axes 980 and 995, are parallel to one another.

In orientation 900, the short axes 395 of the rigid locking teethdisposed in the same row are not aligned. For example, the rigid lockingteeth 1,1; 2,1; 3,1; and 4,1; comprise short axis 915, 950, 960, and970, respectively, wherein axis 915 is not aligned with axis 950, whichis not aligned with axis 960, which is not aligned with axis 970.

While the preferred embodiments of the present invention have beenillustrated in detail, it should be apparent that modifications andadaptations to those embodiments may occur to one skilled in the artwithout departing from the scope of the present invention as set forthherein.

I claim:
 1. A fixturing apparatus comprising: a member having a firstend, a second end, a first surface, and a second surface, wherein saidmember is configured to include a bend such that said first end overliessaid second end, wherein said member is formed to include an apertureextending therethrough at said bend; a plurality of locking teethdisposed on said first surface adjacent said second end; wherein: thedistal ends of each of said plurality of locking teeth define a passagebetween said plurality of locking teeth and said first surface adjacentsaid first end; said passage is formed to include a first end and asecond end; a flexible strap having a first end attached to said secondsurface of said member adjacent said first end; wherein: a second end ofsaid flexible strap can be inserted into said first end of said passage,and moved in a first direction through said passage and outwardlythrough said second end of said passage; after insertion in and throughsaid passage in said first direction, said second end cannot be movedbackwardly through said passage in second and opposing direction.
 2. Thefixturing apparatus of claim 1, wherein said flexible strap comprises aplurality of loop-type fasteners disposed on a surface thereof.
 3. Thefixturing apparatus of claim 1, wherein said first end is formed toinclude a second aperture extending inwardly, further comprising asecond plurality of locking teeth disposed within said aperture.
 4. Thefixturing apparatus of claim 3, further comprising a flexible straphaving a first end and a second end; wherein: said first end can beinserted into said second aperture, wherein said second plurality oflocking teeth prevent removal of said first end from said fixturingapparatus; said second end of said flexible strap can be inserted intosaid first end of said passage, and moved in a first direction throughsaid passage and outwardly through said second end of said passage;after insertion in and through said passage in said first direction,said second end cannot be moved backwardly through said passage insecond and opposing direction.
 5. The fixturing apparatus of claim 4,further comprising a plurality of loop-type fasteners disposed on asurface of said flexible strap.
 6. The fixturing apparatus of claim 1,wherein each locking tooth comprising said plurality of locking teethcomprises a rectangular base, a first rectangular side attached to afirst end of said rectangular base and extending outwardly therefrom,and a second rectangular side attached to an opposing end of saidrectangular base and extending outwardly therefrom, wherein a firstrectangular side distal end is attached to a said second rectangularside distal end to form a gripping edge.
 7. The fixturing apparatus ofclaim 6, wherein: said first rectangular side comprises a first surfacearea; said second rectangular side comprises a second surface area; saidfirst surface area is less than said second surface area.
 8. Thefixturing apparatus of claim 6, wherein said first rectangular sidecomprises a length between about 0.0001 mm and about 5.0 mm.
 9. Thefixturing apparatus of claim 6, wherein said first side in combinationwith said base define a dihedral angle greater than 90 degrees.
 10. Thefixturing apparatus of claim 9, wherein said first side in combinationwith said base define a dihedral angle of about 110 degrees.
 11. Thefixturing apparatus of claim 10, wherein said first rectangular side incombination with said rectangular base define a dihedral angle of about120 degrees.
 12. The fixturing apparatus of claim 5, wherein said firstrectangular side in combination with said rectangular base define adihedral angle of about 90 degrees.
 13. The fixturing apparatus of claim6, wherein: said rectangular base comprises two parallel opposing shortsides in combination with two parallel and opposing long sides; eachlocking tooth comprises a long axis parallel to said long sides andwhich bisects each short side; each locking tooth comprises a short axisparallel to said short sides and which bisects each long side; saidplurality of locking teeth are arranged in a plurality of columns and aplurality of rows.
 14. The fixturing apparatus of claim 13, wherein thelong axes of each locking teeth disposed in a column are aligned withone another.
 15. The fixturing apparatus of claim 14, wherein the shortaxis of each locking tooth disposed in a row are aligned with oneanother.
 16. The fixturing apparatus of claim 14, wherein the short axisof each locking tooth disposed in a row are not aligned with oneanother.
 17. The fixturing apparatus of claim 13, wherein the long axesof each locking teeth disposed in a column are not aligned with oneanother.
 18. The fixturing apparatus of claim 17, wherein the short axisof each locking tooth disposed in a row are aligned with one another.19. The fixturing apparatus of claim 17, wherein the short axis of eachlocking tooth disposed in a row are not aligned with one another.